Quiz: Should I Get Pet Insurance?

Whether you’re a first-time or experienced pet owner, you’ve probably wondered if pet insurance is right for you. After all, pets are just as prone to getting hurt or sick as their human counterparts. But is pet insurance really worth it?

With inflation on the rise, owning a pet is more expensive than ever. According to the US Department of Labor, veterinary costs have increased by a staggering 10.8% between 2022 and 2023. As a result, a third of pet owners avoid taking their pet to the veterinarian out of fear of receiving a high bill.

Pet insurance can protect both your pet and your finances from unexpected vet bills, so it certainly seems like a financially smart decision. That being said, it’s important to take your situation, your pet’s particular risks, and your budget into account when considering if you should get pet insurance.

What is pet insurance?

The world of insurance in general can be confusing to navigate. Confusing jargon like deductibles, coinsurance, and waiting periods often leave you lost and scratching your head. On top of that, not all policies are created equal, which makes shopping around for pet insurance even more complicated.

In the simplest terms, pet insurance helps you pay for unexpected veterinary expenses, which are often costly and exceed your normal budget for your pet's health. The reality is, 42% of pet owners can’t cover an unexpected vet bill, so pet insurance can be a real lifesaver. But more importantly, pet insurance makes it possible for you to get your pet the best veterinary care when they need it most, without having to stop and think about finances.

Even with the best laid plans, the reality is that you can’t predict what might happen to your pet’s health — or what it could cost. As many pet owners learn once it’s too late, one injury or illness can lead to some difficult and heartbreaking decisions.

Quiz: Is pet insurance right for me?

Take this quiz to help you better understand if pet insurance is right for you. All you need is some paper and something to record your answers with!

1. How old is your pet?

1. Under 5 years old.
2. Between 5-14 years old.
3. Over 14 years old.
4. I don’t have a pet yet.

2. What’s your pet’s breed?

1. A breed with no known health issues.
2. A breed that’s prone to some health issues, but my pet has shown little to no signs or symptoms.
3. A breed that’s prone to many health issues, and my pet has already received veterinary care for some of these health issues.
4. I don’t have a pet yet.

3. How often does your pet visit the vet?

1. Not very often, only once or twice a year for routine checkups.
2. More than a few times a year, but I visit the vet more often because I have pet insurance.
3. All the time. My pet is a regular at the vet!
4. I don’t have a pet yet.

4. How active is your pet?

1. Very active. My pet is full of energy, so we go on lots of adventures together.
2. Moderately active, so I have pet insurance to protect my pet from injuries.
3. Not very active. My pet is older and doesn’t get around as much or as easily.
4. Not sure, I don’t have a pet yet.

5. Has your pet ever been sick or injured?

1. No, my pet hasn't yet been sick or injured.
2. Yes, my pet has been sick or injured a few times so far.
3. Yes, my pet has been sick or injured many times over their lifetime.
4. I don’t have a pet yet.

6. Are you comfortable paying a monthly cost for pet insurance?

1. Yes, as long as it’s within my budget!
2. Yes, I already pay a monthly cost for pet insurance.
3. Not sure, my pet is older and has pre-existing conditions.
4. I think so, but I don’t have a pet yet.

7. Would you be able to pay for a surprise $5,000 vet bill today?

1. No, I haven’t had enough time to save up for large veterinary emergencies.
2. Probably, I currently have pet insurance.
3. Yes, I have money set aside for veterinary emergencies.
4. Not sure, I don’t have a pet yet.

8. Have you faced many unexpected vet bills in the past?

1. No, my pet is generally healthy.
2. Yes, and they were covered or denied by my current pet insurance policy.
3. Yes, I’ve paid many unexpected vet bills out-of-pocket.
4. No, I don’t have a pet yet.

9. What level of veterinary care do you desire for your pet?

1. Only the best for my best friend!
2. Comprehensive veterinary care, which is why I have pet insurance.
3. Mostly basic or routine care. I just want my pet to be comfortable.
4. Not sure, I don’t have a pet yet.

10. Have you ever had to make decisions about your pet’s health based on cost?

1. Not yet.
2. No, I have pet insurance.
3. Yes, I’ve had to forgo some veterinary treatments because of my budget.
4. No, I don’t have a pet yet.

Results

Ready to find out if pet insurance is right for you and your pet? Tally up your answers and identify the letter you chose most frequently.

Mostly As: Pet insurance sounds like the right choice for you! But now comes the tricky part — choosing the best policy for your specific needs and budget. To help you make an informed decision while shopping for pet insurance, here are 10 questions to ask before you buy. We’re unique in that no other provider pays as fast as we do, and our coverage is as comprehensive and unlimited as it gets. Not to mention, our award-winning customer support team is available 24/7/365.

Mostly Bs: Looks like you already have pet insurance, but you may not be completely satisfied. Learn how Trupanion compares to your current provider and see why we’re rated #1 by veterinarians. Pet owners (like you!) love our comprehensive coverage. So much so, in fact, that 99% of Trupanion members renew their policy with us month after month! And, it's no wonder why — no other provider pays as fast as we do, and our coverage is as comprehensive as it gets.

Mostly Cs: Pet insurance may not be the best choice because your pet is older and has pre-existing conditions. Pre-existing conditions aren’t covered by pet insurance, which is why it’s best to enroll pets when they’re young. That said, advancements in veterinary care are helping pets live longer than ever before! Even though senior pets develop unique challenges like achy joints and bones, they can still lead a happy and healthy life through regular veterinary visits and thoughtful considerations.

Mostly Ds: Looks like you don’t have a pet yet, and that’s totally fine! In fact, now is the perfect time to start researching your options. To better understand what pet insurance is and how it works, here are some common pet insurance myths debunked. And if you’re still deciding if you should get a dog or cat, take another pet quiz and see if you’re a dog or cat person — the results might surprise you!